The wondering mind of an aspiring author

Archive

Monthly Archives: July 2013

Yes, my writing is flawed (and in probably more ways than I’m aware of) but I stumbled upon some interesting feedback.

As someone who likes to plan things out, I wanted to make sure I got to know my characters before I toss them into the blender. With my current works, I thought I’d try and create a female lead that readers would like. To some extent, I feel I’ve succeeded in that area.

But as I was reminded by a certain reader, characters cannot be perfect. To be interesting, they must have their faults and shortcomings. This was one aspect that I didn’t plan for. I’m at the point where I think I know what her flaws should be but trying to put it down on paper is a very different matter.

This called for some revision.

Taken from Google Image

Dickens has created enough characters to form a town of his own. Few could forget Betsey Trotwood and her best quote: “Donkeys!”. She is constantly hounded by of good-for-nothing husband that bleeds her of money. Dora Spenlow, the lovely but ultimately foolish girl that David marries. The list goes on.

Dickens presented things comically and is no different where human flaws are concerned. He puts it under the spotlight, but is more of an observer rather than a commentator.

Thank you Uncle Google.

Whilst Dickens was entertaining, Dostoyevsky was much darker when exploring human imperfections. He had a knack for depravity, corruption and decadence that few could match. I personally preferred this heavier approach. Many of his works (especially Crime and Punishment) explored the unpleasant side of human nature.

I’d love to give more examples, but due to my limited knowledge, this is all for now. If you know of any books that did so convincingly, please feel free to contribute. Better yet, tell me how you go about giving flaws to you characters. I end this post by apologising for my poor formating skills. Please forgive me.